Mar-Va Theater in Pocomoke

“I believe that in a great city, or even in a small city or a village, a great theater is the outward and visible sign of an inward and probable culture.” ~ Sir Laurence Olivier

Won't you come with me to Pocomoke City, Maryland (we call it Pocomoke around these parts) for a tour of the Mar-Va Theater?

The Mar-Va Theater first opened in 1927. A ticket would set you back ten-cents.

The theater has a rich history, being used for both silent films and vaudeville. In the old days actors like Tom Mix, Roy Rogers, Hop-a-Long Cassidy and Smiley Burnett passed though the hallowed doors.

The theater was shut down years ago. But when you love something you don't let it die, especially something so germane to your past.

Realizing that, some of  the good folks of Pocomoke went out on a limb and bought the declining theater in 2003. Since then, a restoration program has been underway. You can learn more about how you can help preserve a bit of history at the Mar-VA site.

You can also check the site for upcoming events in 2010. I think it is going to be a very good year.
FYI: The name Mar-VA comes from a combination of Maryland/Virginia. Pocomoke is located about 30 minutes from Crisfield, near the Virginia line, on the beautiful Pocomoke River. The theater is within walking distance to the river. While there be sure and visit the Delmarva Discovery Center

The beautiful woman shown in the photos is the one who will bringing new life to the theater in the coming year.

A slice of America still lives in Pocomoke.

One of the original popcorn machines now helps with donations.

The lobby has been restored to its original condition. Imagine Roy Rogers walking through those doors!

Don't forget your tickets.

Or your refreshments. Compared to the regular theaters they are a bargain.

A view from the balcony.

One of the original spotlights still stands in the balcony.

Take a seat and get ready for the show.

There's plenty of room for everyone!

On your way out, take time to enjoy the history. That is one of the original light fixtures.

Kudos to the people of Pocomoke for coming together and combining the past with the future. Tom Mix said, "I try to make the pictures so that when a boy pays - say, 20 cents - to see it, he will get 20 cents worth, not 10. If  I drop, you see, it would be like putting my hand in his pocket and stealing a dime."

I think everyone will get their money's worth at the Del-VA Theater.